• Luckily, San Francisco is serious about toxic waste management and backs up this concern with a variety of services for city residents. Many of them are free. Call the Department of the Environment’s Toxic Reduction Hotline at (415) 554-4333 for information on any of the following:
  
  
• Drop-off Center locations for:
  
  
• Mercury-containing items, such as thermometers, light bulbs, electronics (e.g., cell phones, computer components, televisions);
• Used batteries; and
• Used motor oil and latex paint.
  
  
• The Home Collection Program: Make an appointment to have your used motor oil, latex paint and certain other household toxic substances picked up without charge. If you are a senior citizen, you are eligible to have all of your household toxins picked up with no fee.
  
  
• Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility: Simply drop off your hazard waste here. The facility is located on Tunnel Avenue at Beatty Road, and is open Thursday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed Sunday to Wednesday). Only certain products are accepted, such as paint thinner, asbestos, pesticides, and used motor oil. There is no charge for leaving items, but you must show proof of San Francisco residency. Call first to get directions, confirm hours and hear a list of acceptable items: (415) 330-1406.

See the Department of the Environment’s Toxics Reduction Program Web page for further details on all of these services, including a comprehensive list of “Recycling Centers for Various Products” and information about Hazardous Materials Recycling, Disposal, and Alternatives - For Residents..